Review: BMW X6 Performance

Our buddies over at Famous BMW bring us a review of the BMW X6 Performance. Recently, they were given the opportunity to test this vehicle …

Our buddies over at Famous BMW bring us a review of the BMW X6 Performance. Recently, they were given the opportunity to test this vehicle that for some, it represents the ideal replacement for the much more expensive X6 M.

The BMW X6 with Performance Parts made its debut at the recent Geneva Motor Show. The sporting looks of the BMW X6 SAC are accentuated more than ever before by the Performance Aerodynamics Kit. The BMW Performance Aerodynamics Kit includes a more aggressive front bumper, side-sills and an insert for the rear bumper, all in special design and all finished in body color. The BMW Performance Aerodynamics Kit for the BMW X6 may also be supplemented by a rear spoiler, rear fins in matte black and a front grid finished in high-gloss black paint.

BMW Performance light-alloy wheels in Y-spoke design further optimize the dynamic driving potential and the striking looks of the BMW X6. Reduced in weight, these cast light-alloy 12-inch wheels stand out in particular through their roll-milled rim hump and exclusive twin-tone finish with a glossy outside surface, and Ferric Grey paintwork between the rims. A special production method reduces the weight of each wheel by approximately 1,500 grams compared to the conventional wheels of the same size.

And what about the power?

The BMW Performance Power Kit raises maximum output of the eight-cylinder with BMW TwinPower Turbo and High Precision Injection in the BMW X6 xDrive50i, by 30 kW/41 hp to 330 kW/448 hp. Peak torque is also upped by 50 Nm/37 lb-ft to 650 Nm/479 lb-ft. The twin-turbo six-cylinder power unit of the BMW X6 xDrive35i also sees an increase in maximum output by 15 kW/20 hp to 240 kW/326 hp, with peak torque increased to450 Nm/332 lb-ft.

Benefiting from the BMW Performance Power Kit, both models accelerate 0.2 seconds faster from standstill to 100 km/h (62mph). The BMW X6 xDrive50i model with the BMW Performance Power Kit records a time of 5.2 seconds, while the xDrive35i stops the clock at 6.5 seconds. Acceleration in gears from 80 – 120 km/h (50 – 75 mph) is 0.5 seconds faster in each model.

In our test, BMW X6 proved to be one of the sportiest SUV (SAC) currently on the market and its handling is nothing short of superb. The feeling of a sport sedan is very much alive in the X6 Performance.

However there are few problems that we would like to point out.

Our X6 was the xDrive35i model and the power feels somewhat short for the weight of this car. It is “thirsty” and yet not so fast. With an aggressive look near the M model of the X6, the best choice is the 50i. Its twin-turbo V8 and 448 horsepower are more than sufficient for the regular driver.

Starting in June 2010, BMW Performance also offers a sports exhaust system. Available as well on the BMW X6 xDrive50i and xDrive35i, this option stands out clearly through its chrome-plated tailpipes, at the same time offering even lower weight and a particularly striking sound pattern together with a further reduction of exhaust counter-pressure.

BMW Performance also offers attractive accessories for the interior design, again raising the sporting driving experience in the X6 to an even higher standard. As an example, all model variants of BMW’s Sports Activity Coupé may be equipped with a BMW Performance sports steering wheel with a flattened rim at the bottom and alcantara coating for optimum grip and a pleasant touch in all temperatures.

Overall, the BMW X6 with Performance stands out due to its “sex-appeal” and it certainly is a head-turner, as we observed in our short ride through Prague.